I was born Duke Blue! My father was a graduate of Duke seminary! While in the womb i was taken to Duke games. I do not remember it, but i was their for Coach K’s first game! I have grown up with him as a role model. As a child my father would surprise me with the occasional Duke game at Cameron indoor. My hero was Johny Dawkins! Our seats were always located directly behind coach’s wife and daughters.
I remember the games i would go to watching him walk in and prepare for the game, and dreaming of running down and talking to him! My dad did not want me to bother him. One night i ignored him and leaned forward and asked his wife if i could get his autograph! She was as kind as my own mother, and with a smile told me to walk on down and ask him. I rushed down to the back of the duke bench. His back was to me, i didn’t want to take up his time or bother him. I leaned forward and tapped his shoulder. He turned and looked and i asked for his autograph. He very gently leaned down, and as if he was a close family member put his hand on my shoulder and said,”if you wait by the tunnel after the game i will come out and give you my autograph”! I was thrilled i bounded up the steps and as i ran past his wife she gave me the thumbs up!
My father,”GOD BLESS HIM”, is a very synical man, and he didn’t like me getting hurt so he lovingly told me not to get my hopes up! After the game i did as he told me and headed towards the tunnel. To my disappointment their were at least 100 others waiting. I was about 4ft nothing and hidden under all the other grown men and reporters and other kids. I waited and waited. I was about to walk away when i looked and everyone started screaming. There he was walking out of the locker room and into the tunnel. Everyone was reaching out for an autograph or word on that nights game. He looked like he had a purpose his eyes scanned the crowd until they set upon me.
He kindly announced to everyone else that he had promised me an autograph, and that was all i was expecting. He came out and put his arm around me and to my amazement walked me back into the locker room! I was scared and excited at the same time! As i turned the corner into the busy locker room he interupted the players and had them all come over and meet me. I met Grant Hill, Christian Lattener, Bobby Hurley, Thomas hill i was in awe! The guys were so kind. The sportsmanship of the guys made a real impact on me.
Then after i got to look around and ask questions, Coach K took me aside and asked me what i wanted to be when i grew up! OOOOFF course i said a Duke ball player. He took my program guide from the game and wrote a very motivating and uplifting personal mesage that i have never forgotten.
The respect that i have for him has grown with every year, every book every quote that he producess! It’s not about how many games he’s won or his gold medals, but the honor that he brings to the court and off. The respect he teaches his players. It’s the fight and passion that he instills in his team. He has been a role model for me in my 30 years and am sure that he will be for my son also. He took the time out of his life to touch my heart and motivate me. He will always be my coach!!!!
